Coulthard was Hoping for More

The Red Bull driver finished in sixth position after running in the points during the whole event.

Coulthard, however, felt fourth place was achievable judging by their pace compared to the Williams of Mark Webber, who took fourth in the end.

"From the team's point of view, we've got to be satisfied, as there are some strong teams out there," said the Scot. "I had a good battle with Jenson (Button) in Turn one and our pace was good at the start. It was only after the fuel stop I began to struggle. We have to put quite a lot of fuel in our car, which can upset the balance.

"However, as more fuel gets burnt off, it improves. It's happened quite often this year - we put fuel in the car and lose some performance in the middle stint of the race compared to the others.

"We were competitive with Williams all weekend, and they finished fourth, so, while we'll gratefully take the points, I was hoping for more."

Teammate Christian Klien endured a disappointing race after starting from fourth place, the Austrian crossing the line in ninth position.

"I had a good start, although the car felt a bit sluggish off the grid; I'm not sure what caused that. I was fighting hard with Sato in Turn one; he tried to overtake me, but I defended my place, although the first ten laps were difficult.

"The car felt heavy and my hard tyres made it tricky on the green track, meaning I lost some time. The Renaults and McLarens were in a different league to us and there was just no chance to defend from them. The car improved as the race went on and I began to set faster lap times, but by then it was too late.

"I'm not so happy, I must say. From fourth on the grid you expect a lot more, not really to finish in ninth position."